Why is youth unemployment a problem when filing Washington ESD claims?

What exactly is the base period? I worked 8 months but I'm not sure how they calculate that timeframe.

Your base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed. So if you filed in January 2025, it would be October 2023 through September 2024.

This is so true! I was 20 when I first filed and had no idea what I was doing. The job search requirements were especially confusing.

Yeah the job search stuff is overwhelming. Do I have to apply to jobs that require years of experience I don't have?

How much does that cost though? I'm unemployed so money is tight.

It's worth checking their site for current pricing. When you're young and new to this system, sometimes getting direct answers from an agent is the only way to figure things out.

Exactly! And then when you do qualify for UI, the weekly amount is usually pretty low because it's based on your previous wages.

That's what I'm worried about. Even if I qualify, will it be enough to actually help with bills?

Your weekly benefit amount is calculated from your highest quarter earnings in the base period. With 8 months of retail work, it might not be huge but every bit helps.

That's a relief! I was worried I'd have to apply for management positions or something crazy like that.

Just make sure you keep good records of your job search activities. Washington ESD can audit your search log at any time.

OMG yes! I spent hours on hold just to get disconnected. So frustrating when you're already stressed about money.

thats exactly why i ended up using that claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier. actually got to talk to a real person who could explain my specific situation

I hadn't heard of WorkSourceWA. Is that something I have to use to keep getting benefits?

You're not required to use WorkSourceWA services, but they can be really helpful for building skills and finding better opportunities than your previous job.

Plus if you're interested in training programs, some can extend your benefit eligibility while you learn new skills.

It's not really bias, it's just how the system is designed. UI is insurance based on your work history and contributions.

I get that it's insurance-based but the effect is still the same. Young people get screwed over by having less work history through no fault of their own.

How long do you have to appeal if they deny your claim?

You have 30 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal. Don't wait - the deadline is strict.

I might try that if I keep having issues. The automated system is not helpful at all for someone who doesn't know what they're doing.

Same here. I had no idea what half the terms on my account meant until I talked to an actual person.

Thanks everyone for the advice! I feel a lot less anxious about this whole process now.

Good luck with your claim! Don't hesitate to ask questions if you run into any issues during the process.

Absolutely! Plus you're building up work history that will help if you ever need to file again in the future.

Good point! I'll start a folder for all this stuff right now.

Smart thinking. Documentation can save you a lot of headaches later if there are any questions about your claim.

Yeah, the Washington ESD website could definitely be clearer about requirements and processes. Having to call for basic information shouldn't be necessary.

What happens if I get a part-time job while collecting benefits?

You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits, but you must report all earnings when filing your weekly claim. Washington ESD will reduce your benefit amount based on how much you earned.

The key is being honest about your earnings. Trying to hide income can result in overpayment demands and penalties.